Discover fun and educational events happening this week in Western Mass, along with announcements, upcoming events, links, resources and the HFVS podcast.

SUGGEST AN EVENT

If you have a family friendly event or educational program happening in Western Massachusetts that you’d like to let us know about, post your event on our “Suggest An Event” page. The events below are “suggested.” Please take the time to confirm that these events are happening, along with time, place, age appropriateness and costs before attending.

Serving Western Massachusetts since 2005, Hilltown Families supports development and enhancement of our local economy and community. Local businesses, individuals, schools and non-profits are encouraged to partner with Hilltown Families throughsponsorship and advertising. Let us help get the word out about your after school class, event, camp, workshop, fundraiser, business/school, service, open house or general announcement. Deliver your message to thousands of families living throughout Western Massachusetts while supporting the work of Hilltown Families. Click HERE to find out more.

BEST BETS

This maple harvest season Hilltown Families is inviting our readers to share their favorite breakfast recipes with us for a collection of recipes and stories we are putting together for a new project we’re working on called "Seasons at Our Table." Share your favorite recipe and be entered to win a FABULOUS package to get your family in the kitchen cooking breakfast or brunch together! Click on the banner for all the details!

In Hampden Co. on Saturday, March 24th from 9:30am-5pm – GEOLOGY: Learn all about different types of minerals, jewels, rocks, and fossils this weekend at the Western Mass Mineral, Jewelry, and Fossil Show. The event brings together collectors from all over New England (and beyond!) to share their unique collections. Kids will be able to see hundreds of different types of specimens- a visit to the show fits into studies of natural history (especially of the Connecticut River Valley) and, of course, geology. It’s a great learning opportunity for the whole family, and kids under 12 get free admission. Takes place at the Holyoke Hotel and Conference Center. 245 Whiting Farms Road. Holyoke, MA. (<$)

In Franklin Co. on Saturday, March 24th from 4-6pm - FAMILY CONCERT: The Pioneer Valley Symphony’s annual family concert, “A Carnival of Animals,” takes place this afternoon. Pieces performed include the orchestral suite from The Lion King (by John and Zimmer) and Stravinsky’s Firebird! There will also be an instrument “petting zoo” where kids can take a close-up look at the instruments they’ll hear featured during the show. Takes place at Greenfield High School. 141 Davis Street. Greenfield, MA. (<$)

In Berkshire Co. on Sunday, March 25th from 10am-10pm – FILM FESTIVAL: Project Native’s annual film festival takes place. The event features films on a variety of different topics that all have to do, somehow, with food, consumption, and/or the environment. Special shorts for families (best for kids ages 3-8) will be shown at 10am, and full-length films begin at 11:25. The event, sponsored by a local nursery committed to sustainable production of native foods, is a great opportunity for kids to learn about food production, the role of food in our culture, environmentally friendly daily habits, and more. Seating is limited! Takes place at the Triplex Cinema. 413-528-8885. 70 Railroad Street. Great Barrington, MA. (FREE)

In Hampshire Co. on Sunday, March 25th at 2pm – THEATER: Students from Hampshire Regional High School present the classic musical Guys and Dolls. 413-527-7680. 19 Stage Road. Westhampton, MA. ($)

MARK YOUR CALENDARS

Saturday, March 31st from 5:30-9pm – SPRING ADVENTURES: There are mysterious creatures and critters in the woods at Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary. Families can take a guided tour (leaving the visitor’s center every 15 minutes) of the woods to characters who live in the vernal pools at the sanctuary. There will be frogs, salamanders, fairy shrimp, and more. Along with the tours will be games, presentations, and real live pond critters for kids to meet. Celebrate spring and the unique habitats created by the change in seasons! 413-584-3009. 127 Coombs Road. Easthampton, MA. ($)

Sunday, April 1st beginning at 10am – PHYSICS/YO-YOS: The Z-Games, also known as the Northeast Regional Yo-yo Contest, takes place today! Hosted by A to Z Science and Learning Store, the event takes place at JFK Middle School and features yo-yo-ers of all ages and abilities. There are divisions based on age, special categories for tricks, and more. Kids can learn about the sport of yo-yo-ing and supplement studies of physics by observing performances and thinking about how yo-yos work. The event runs all day. 413-586-1611. 100 Bridge Road. Florence, MA.

BULLETIN BOARD

BALLET: Pioneer Valley Ballet presents Cinderella based on the classic fairytale of Cinderella and the Prince, the birth and flowering of love, the obstacles in its path and finally the dream fulfilled. This comic ballet is known for its jubilant music, lush scenery, beautiful dancing and the hilariously wicked stepsisters, more mad than bad in this production. Come experience a beggar turning into a Fairy Godmother, a pumpkin and mice that turn into a coach and coachmen, a glass slipper that makes dreams come true. You will leave the theater laughing, awe-inspired, and believing in “happily ever after!” Shows: March 31 & April 1 at the Academy of Music in Northampton. Visit www.pioneervalleyballet.org or the Academy at 413-584-9032 for tickets.

PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT: Save the date for ArtSpark, Hilltown Cooperative Charter Public School’s annual party & auction at Look Park’s Garden House in Florence on Saturday, March 31st at 7 p.m. Music by The O-Tones, food by Bread Euphoria & a cash bar. A good time for a good cause, with auction items at all price points, from a carton of fresh eggs to one-of-a-kind furniture & crafts to a South African Safari. Tickets are $20 apiece, available in advance at local businesses including Bread Euphoria, State Street Fruit Store, Cooper’s Corner & The Creamery, or at the door. More info, please call 413-268-3421.

ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS: RH Conwell Community School of Worthingon, MA is accepting applications for the 2012-13 school year with openings in all classes from Pre-K through 6th grade. Located in the heart of the Hilltowns of Western MA, Conwell is an affordable private school with a supportive environment, offering a rigorous, encouraging, and developmentally appropriate program to all students. Children are taught to think creatively, read critically, and reason logically. Conwell has a high level of parent and community involvement in both classroom and after school activities where students are valued as individuals and tailor learning plans to their needs and learning styles. For more information visit online at www.conwellcec.org or call 413-238-5856.

"Last year a participant from the Boston area found out about my camp through your website and spent a week out here with her daughter just for my camp!" - Beth Fairservis, Puppets in the Woods Summer Arts Camp

SUMMER CAMPS MARKETING SPECIAL: In an effort to connect families with summer camps & programs in the region, we’re offering camps a chance to partner with Hilltown Families in their online marketing with a special enhanced publicity offer. This spring we will be featuring camps in the region on Hilltown Families with a special post titled: Summer Camps and Programs in Western MA. Find out more about how your camp can partner with Hilltown Families.

EARNED PAID SICK TIME: On Saturday, March 23rd from 9am-12:30pm adults can learn about how the Earned Paid Sick Time legislation being currently deliberated will affect families. There are benefits for employers, families, and communities if the legislation passes- find out more today on what it’s all about and what it means for you. Representative Ellen Story will speak at the workshop. Takes place at the Kittredge Center at HCC. 303 Homestead Avenue. Holyoke, MA. (FREE)

PREGNANT YOUTH: On Saturday, March 23rd from 9:15am-1:15pm young women up to 21yo are invited to attend a newborn care class at the Baystate Franklin Medical Center. Learn about what to expect, how to feed a newborn, how to care for yourself and how to keep a baby safe. 413-475-1566. The Birthplace, 3rd Floor Classroom. Greenfield, MA (FREE)

Saturday, March 24th, 2012

"Hilltown Families is an excellent resource for family oriented fun, information and events in Western Mass."- Geri Pollard (Cummington, MA)

6-10am – FAMILY RADIO: Valley Free Radio (WXOJ-LP 103.3FM Northampton, MA) offers 4-hours of commercial-free family programing every Saturday, including the Hilltown Family Variety Show and Spare the Rock. Tune in on your FM dial, or listen live via streaming audio at www.valleyfreeradio.org.

9-10am – HILLTOWN FAMILY VARIETY SHOW: Tune in on your FM dial, or listen live via streaming audio at www.valleyfreeradio.org. – This week Orange Sherbet will share songs on seasonal foods! – Listen to the most recent episodes of the Hilltown Family Variety Show anytime you want. Click here to see our current select of episodes, and be sure to subscribe to the podcast too.

9am-12noon – COMMUNITY BREAKFAST: Raise money to benefit Berkshire Trail Elementary School and have a delicious breakfast of pancakes and french toast, bacon, and local syrup (Bottomless coffee for big kids, too!), 413-634-0176. Main Street. Cummington, MA. (FUNRAISER)

9:30am-5pm – GEOLOGY: Learn all about different types of minerals, jewels, rocks, and fossils this weekend at the Western Mass Mineral, Jewelry, and Fossil Show. The event brings together collectors from all over New England (and beyond!) to share their unique collections. Kids will be able to see hundreds of different types of specimens- a visit to the show fits into studies of natural history (especially of the Connecticut River Valley) and, of course, geology. Sponsored by the Connecticut Valley Mineral Club, the event also features live demonstrations, art, and prizes. It’s a great learning opportunity for the whole family, and kids under 12 get free admission. Takes place at the Holyoke Hotel and Conference Center. 245 Whiting Farms Road. Holyoke, MA. (<$)

10-11am – SEWING: Learn and practice basic sewing skills, both hand and machine, today at a 4-H sewing group. Takes place at the Bagshare Sewing Center in the Cummington Community House. Call for details or to RSVP. 413-634-5631. Main Street. Cummington, MA. (FREE)

10am – CREATIVE FREE PLAY: Think outside the box! What can you make with a cardboard box, tape, markers, and glue? Kids and parents are invited to exercise their creativity and practice their architectural skills this morning at Hatfield Elementary School. The Collaborative for Educational Services is hosting this event, which offers kids an opportunity for non-commercial creative free play. It’s intended for kids 5 and under and their families. Call to register. 413-586-4998. 33 Main Street. Hatfield, MA. (FREE)

10am-12Noon – OPEN HOUSE: Hartsbrook School is holding an all school open house. Learn about Waldorf Education. 413-586-1908. 193 Bay Road. Hadley, MA (FREE)

10am-12Noon – COMMUNITY BREAKFAST: GROW is hosting a community brunch with performances and a silent auction. 413-441-4186. 175 Wendell Ave. Pittsfield, MA (FUNDRAISER)

♦ 10am-12Noon - STEM PLAYGROUP: Join The Greenfield Family Center for a playgroup with a STEM focus. Kids 6yo and younger and participate in interactive activities around science, technology, engineering and math. 413-475-1553. 90 Federal St. Greenfield, MA (FREE)

10am-1pm – ARTS & CRAFTS: The Cummington Family Center hosts a workshop to learn how to sew felt bunnies and eggs by hand. Just in time for Spring Time & Easter. 110 Mount Road. Cummington, MA (>$)

10am-1pm – WINTER CARNIVAL: The Hadley Elementary School host their winter carnival with entertainment for the whole family that supports one of our local public schools. 413-586-0822. 125 Russell St. Hadley, MA (>$)

10:30am – HORA DE CUENTOS/SPANISH STORYTIME: Jones Library hosts special storytime in Spanish! Intended for kids who either speak Spanish or are actively learning the language and are between the ages of 3 and 6. 413-259-3090. 43 Amity Street. Amherst, MA. (FREE)

10:30am – STORYTIME: Dress for summer and head to the Berkshire Athenaeum for a special summer-themed storytime event. There will be summery books, a sunny activity, and a short film. 413-499-9480. 1 Wendell Avenue. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE)

10:30 or 11:30am – PUPPETS: Head to Matrushka Toys and Gifts for a special puppet show. Puppeteer Somer Surpe will be performing “Mud Muffins,” a spring-y show features beautiful handmade puppets. 413-528-6911. 309 Main Street. Great Barrington, MA. (FREE)

12:30-2:30pm – PRESCHOOL RESOURCE FAIR: The 8th annual Franklin County Area Early Education and Care Family Resource Fair takes place today. Parents can learn about the many different options available for pre-school, Head Start, childcare, after school programs, playgroups, and more. There will also be a program for kids on birds of prey by Tom Ricardi, as well as fun literacy activities. The event takes place at First Church. 413-498-2660. 43 Silver Street. Greenfield, MA. (FREE)

1pm – FAMILY CONCERT: Beethoven’s Wig will be performing a kids concert at the Eric Carle Museum. Doors open at 12:30pm. Proceeds benefit the scholarship program of the Northampton Community Music Center. 413-585-0001. 125 West Bay Road. Amherst, MA. (>$)

1:30-3:20pm – ICE SKATING: Get in some more skating practice at Fitzpatrick Arena’s Spring Fling skating event. In addition to open skating time, there will be live DJ music. 413-532-2929. 575 Maple Street. Holyoke, MA. (<$)

2pm – MOVIE: See a matinee screening of Dolphin Tale at the Ludlow Community Center. There will be free popcorn to munch on, and the movie is totally family-friendly (though kids must be accompanied by their adults). 413-583-2072. 91 Claudia’s Way. Ludlow, MA. (FREE)

4-6pm - FAMILY CONCERT: The Pioneer Valley Symphony’s annual family concert, “A Carnival of Animals,” takes place this afternoon. Pieces performed include the orchestral suite from The Lion King (by John and Zimmer) and Stravinsky’s Firebird! There will also be an instrument “petting zoo” where kids can take a close-up look at the instruments they’ll hear featured during the show. Takes place at Greenfield High School. 141 Davis Street. Greenfield, MA. (<$)

4:30-5:30pm – PHYSICS/YO-YOS: Learn yo-yo tricks at A2Z this afternoon. Lead by world class pros, Yo-Yo School teaches kids basic yo-yo tricks. Learning to yo-yo is a great supplement to studies of motion and physics. 413-586-1611. 57 King Street. Northampton, MA. (FREE) ♦

6pm – COMMUNITY DINNER: Prepare your favorite dessert or side dish (from local ingredients, perhaps!) and bring it to Plainfield Town Hall for a community dinner. There will be turkey, potatoes, veggies, and an array of potluck foods. After the dinner will be a slideshow of photography from South America. Main Street. Plainfield, MA.

7:15-10:30pm – CONTRA DANCE: Family contra dancing tonight at the Munson Library. The night starts with beginner dances and gets progressively more advanced as the night goes on. 413-259-3095. 1046 South East Street. Amherst, MA. (<$)

7:30pm – THEATER: Holyoke High School presents Legally Blonde: The Musical. The show follows ditsy sorority girl Elle Woods through her adventures at Harvard Law School, where she enrolls to win back her boyfriend but discovers that she’s actually a great lawyer. 413-534-2020. 500 Beech Street. Holyoke, MA. ($)

8pm – FILM SCREENING: Pothole Pictures hosts a community sing-a-long and screening of Fiddler on the Roof. There will be a performance by the Wholesale Klezmer Band from 8-8:30 and the screening will begin at 8:30. Takes place at Memorial Hall. 413-625-3052. 51 Bridge Street. Shelburne Falls, MA. (<$)

PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT

8pm – SWAN: The Academy of Music is hosting a special performance tonight to celebrate SWAN day, a day that spotlights women artists. The show performed is Women of Will, which is a compilation of scenes from Shakespeare’s many works. The show is directed by Tina Packer, founder of Shakespeare and Co., and appeals to both newcomers to Shakespeare as well as those well-versed in his work. 413-584-9032. 274 Main Street. Northampton, MA. ($$)

8pm-12midnight – DANCE PARTY: The 4th annual Full Belly Dance Party is tonight at the Northampton Center for the Arts. Sponsored by Brookfield Farm and Seeds of Solidarity, the event is a fundraiser to benefit local food security- this year’s funding recipients are the Amherst and Northampton Survival Centers and the Kestrel Trust. There will be live music from The No-Nos, as well as light fare and drinks featuring local food growers and producers. South Street. Northampton, MA. ($)

Sunday, March 25th, 2012

"Not only are the events you post kid/family friendly, they are unique and genuine. A great resource no matter where you are in the Pioneer Valley. Thanks for all you do!" - Jacqueline Jones (Holyoke, MA)

7-8am – FAMILY RADIO: Valley Free Radio (WXOJ-LP 103.3FM Northampton, MA) airs encores the Hilltown Family Variety Show every Sunday morning. Tune in on your FM dial, or listen live via streaming audio at www.valleyfreeradio.org.

8-11am – COMMUNITY BREAKFAST: Help raise money for the Middlefield Fair and have a pancake breakfast (topped with local maple syrup!). The all-you-can-eat event takes place at the town hall. 188 Skyline Trail. Middlefield, MA. ($)

10am-4pm – GEOLOGY: Learn all about different types of minerals, jewels, rocks, and fossils this weekend at the Western Mass Mineral, Jewelry, and Fossil Show. The event brings together collectors from all over New England (and beyond!) to share their unique collections. Kids will be able to see hundreds of different types of specimens- a visit to the show fits into studies of natural history (especially of the Connecticut River Valley) and, of course, geology. Sponsored by the Connecticut Valley Mineral Club, the event also features live demonstrations, art, and prizes. It’s a great learning opportunity for the whole family, and kids under 12 get free admission. Takes place at the Holyoke Hotel and Conference Center. 245 Whiting Farms Road. Holyoke, MA. (<$)

10am-4pm – MUSEUM ADVENTURE: The Amelia Park Children’s Museum is a great place for families to visit. The museum has lengthened hours on the weekend, and it’s full of fun exhibits for kids to explore and learn from. 413-572-4014. 29 South Broad Street. Westfield, MA. ($) ♦

10am-10pm – FILM FESTIVAL: Project Native’s annual film festival takes place today. The event features films on a variety of different topics that all have to do, somehow, with food, consumption, and/or the environment. Special shorts for families (best for kids ages 3-8) will be shown at 10am, and full-length films begin at 11:25. The event, sponsored by a local nursery committed to sustainable production of native foods, is a great opportunity for kids to learn about food production, the role of food in our culture, environmentally friendly daily habits, and more. Seating is limited! Takes place at the Triplex Cinema. 413-528-8885. 70 Railroad Street. Great Barrington, MA. (FREE)

11am-4pm - MUSEUM ADVENTURES: The KidSpace at Mass MoCA is open today- explore an exhibit designed just for young people and make some art of your own. 413-664-4481. 1040 Mass MoCA Way. North Adams, MA. (<$) ♦

2pm – THEATER: Holyoke High School presents Legally Blonde: The Musical! The show follows ditsy sorority girl Elle Woods through her adventures at Harvard Law School, where she enrolls to win back her boyfriend but discovers that she’s actually a great lawyer! 413-534-2020. 500 Beech Street. Holyoke, MA. ($)

3pm – CONCERT: Hear music from local musicians that promotes peace and celebrates spring. The concert is a fundraiser for scholarships to Sarah Pirtle’s Journey Camp. Takes place at the Woolman Hill Meetinghouse. Keets Road. Deerfield, MA. ($)

3:30-5:30pm – FAMILY DANCE: The Montague Grange hosts family contra dancing on the last Sunday of each month. Today’s called is Tim VanEgmond- along with dancing, there will be games and singing. Great for families with young kids. 34 Main Street. Montague, MA. ($)

5-6pm – STORYTIME: Dress the kids for bed, then head to the library! There’s a special pajama storytime tonight at the Erving Library. Kids can bring their special cuddle items (teddies, bunnies, blankets, etc.) with them, and there will be bedtime stories read for all. 978-544-5157. 17 Moore Street. Erving, MA. (FREE)

Monday, March 26th, 2012

"Having moved our family to the Berkshires from Cincinnati area a year ago, we didn't know where to start to connect our homeschooled children with all the events and activities available in the area. Hilltown Families gives us more than enough choices to get involved and make new friends!" - Caitlin Porter Loverin (Pittsfield, MA)

REGISTRATION DEADLINE: The Children’s Museum of West Hartford, CT is hosting a special HomeschoolDay on Tuesday, March 27th! The museum’s regular exhibits will be open, and there will be educational workshops taking place throughout the day on many different topics. There are workshops designed for all ages and abilities, and topics include physics, ocean exploration, architecture, astronomy, and more. Each workshop features fun hands-on learning opportunities. More information is available on the museum’s website. 860-231-2830 ex. 44. 950 Trout Brook Drive. West Hartford, CT. ($)

3:15-4:30pm – MARTIAL ARTS: River Valley Tae Kwon Do is offering classes for kids in grades 1-6 at the Westhampton Public Library! Not only will kids learn about the Ji Do Kwan style of Tae Kwon Do, they’ll learn about another culture and will learn to move their bodies in new ways. The class takes place for six weeks, and kids who attend regularly will get a uniform to wear. For the first class, kids are asked to wear loose fitting clothes. 413-527-5386. 1 North Road. Westhampton, MA. (FREE)

3pm or 6pm – FAMILY MOVIE: The Whately Library is screening the movie Hugo twice today. Set in 1930’s Paris, the movie is about the adventures of a boy who lives in a train station. 413-665-0054. 218 Chestnut Plain Road. Whately, MA. (FREE)

3:30-4:30pm – FRENCH: Storrs Library is holding introductory language classes for kids. Today’s French class is for middle school students who have little to no previous experience with the language. Call to register. 413-565-4182. 693 Longmeadow Street. Longmeadow, MA. (FREE)

4-6pm – THEATER: Have your kids always wanted to try out acting? They can audition today to be in Missoula Children’s Theater’s production of The Secret Garden in Amherst. There are 50-60 roles available for kids of all ages and abilities- kids from kindergarten through 12th grade are invited to audition. Performances will take place on Saturday, March 31st and rehearsals will take place daily throughout the week preceding. Auditions take place in the cafeteria at Amherst High School. 413-461-6722. 21 Matoon Street. Amherst, MA. (FREE)

7-8:30pm – PARENT WORKSHOP: Parents and teens can attend a workshop tonight on teen substance use and abuse. The event is youth-led, and its aim is to help families move beyond questions of what and how teens are using substances, but to address the why of substance use. The event features videos created by youth, a youth panel, guest speakers, and more. Sponsored by South Berkshire Community Coalition, the event takes place at the Berkshire South Regional Community Center. 413-528-1919. 15 Crissey Road. Great Barrington, MA. (FREE)

PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT

6pm – DINNER DATE: Berkshire Grown is holding a Maple Dinner tonight. The event features locally grown and/or produced foods, with a focus on delicious maple syrup (‘tis the season!). There will be cocktails and hors d’oeuvres beginning at 6, and a seven course tasting menu prepared by chefs from local restaurants beginning at 7. The event is a great way to show support for local food growers, producers, and chefs as well as a way to support the work of Berkshire Grown. Takes place at the Red Lion Inn. 413-528-0041. 30 Main Street. Stockbridge, MA. ($$$)

10am-12Noon – PLAYGROUP: Easthampton Family Center, located at Flywheel Arts in the Old Town Hall. 43 Main Street. Easthampton, MA (FREE) ♦

10:30am-12Noon – PLAYGROUP: The Meekins Library is now offering a facilitate playgroup every 2nd & 4th Monday of the month! The playgroup will include arts & crafts, story time, and other fun activities for kids and their grown-ups! 413-268-7472. 2 Main Street. Williamsburg, MA. (FREE) ♦

5:30pm – PLAYGROUP: Childcare of the Berkshires hosts gym group at the Haskins Center! 413-664-4821. 210 State Street. North Adams, MA. (FREE) ♦

2:30-5pm – TEEN/TWEEN: Meekins’ Teen/Tween Scene is this afternoon. Hang out at the library and check out some new books, music, or DVD’s. You can also play a game on the Wii, get help with your homework, or do some arts and crafts. Snacks provided. 413-268-7472. 2 Main Street. Williamsburg, MA. (FREE) ♦

3pm – LEGOS: Does your kid love LEGOS? Try out LEGO BrikWars, a wargaming system that takes ordinary building blocks and turns them into a game of strategy and destruction. Takes place at Forbes Library. 413-587-1011. 20 West Street. Northampton, MA. (FREE) ♦

Tuesday, March 27th, 2012

"My family and I check with Hilltown Families every week. We have done numerous activities thanks to Hilltown Families over the years…big thanks!" - Rebecca Lauterbach (Springfield, MA)

10-11:30am – PARENT WORKSHOP: The Springfield Parent Academy hosts a workshop for parents on credit. Titled, “Everything You Wanted to Know About Credit But Were Afraid to Ask,” the workshop will provide attendees with a basic understanding of credit, including what goes into a credit score, repairing a credit score, and how to get a credit report. Takes place at the John Sullivan Community Building. 160 Nursery Street. Springfield, MA. (FREE)

3:30-4:30pm – OUTDOOR ADVENTURE: Explore all of the things there are to see and learn about this afternoon at the New Salem Library. Best for kids ages 5-9, the program will give kids free time to explore and will include guided discussion where kids will learn about plants and get to ask questions about the things that they see. Registration required. 978-544-6334. 23 South Main Street. New Salem, MA. (FREE)

6:30-8pm – PARENT WORKSHOP: The Springfield Parent Academy hosts, “Tough Kids at School,” a workshop for parents and caregivers of students with emotional and/or behavioral special needs. This workshop will help parents to define tough kids, and will offer strategies for helping kids deal with school. Call to register. Takes place at the Johnson School. 413-750-2831. 55 Catherine Street. Springfield, MA. (FREE)

6:30-8:30pm – PARENT WORKSHOP: The Collaborative for Educational Services is offering a three-part workshop series for parents on managing behavior in pre-school aged children. Called “At Your Wit’s End: Responding to Challenging Behaviors,” the series will offer information to parents and provide a space where parents can ask questions and share advice with other parents. Childcare is available by request. Registration required. 413-586-4998. 49 Church Street. Ware, MA. (FREE)

7:30pm - CULTURAL STUDIES: See Japanese drum group TAO perform The Way of the Drum at the UMass Fine Arts Center. The group’s precision, energy, and stamina contribute largely to the exciting, energetic performance of traditional Japanese drumming. Pair the performance with studies of Japanese history and/or culture. 413-545-2511. 300 Massachusetts Avenue. Amherst, MA. ($$)

10-11am – PLAYGROUP: Childcare of the Berkshires hosts a pre-school play-and-learn group in the after school room at the Haskins Center for kids ages 2.5-5! 413-664-4821. 210 State Street. North Adams, MA. (FREE) ♦

10am-12Noon – PLAYGROUP: Easthampton Family Center, located at Flywheel Arts in the Old Town Hall. 43 Main Street. Easthampton, MA (FREE)♦

5:30-6:30pm – PLAYGROUP: Childcare of the Berkshires hosts a gym group at Florida Elementary School! There will be free play, circle time, and a snack. 413-664-4821. 56 North Country Road. Florida, MA. (FREE) ♦

10-11am – STORYTIME: The Greenfield Public Library hosts Pre-School Story Hour. There will be stories, songs, and fingerplay for little ones and they caregivers. 413-587-1011. 402 Main Street. Greenfield, MA. (FREE) ♦

10:30am – STORYTIME: Toddler storytime at the North Adams Public Library. 413-662-3133. 74 Church Street. North Adams, MA (FREE) ♦

10:30am – STORYTIME: For pre-schoolers and toddlers at the Lanesborough Public Library. 413-442-0222. 83 North Main Street. Lanesborough, MA. (FREE) ♦

9:15-10:30am – YOGA: Drop off the kids at school then come enjoy a yoga class at the library. Yoga teacher Kellie Finn teaches yoga this morning at the Meekins Library. This is a fun class for those at any level. Call beforehand to check on available space. 413-268-7473. 2 Main Street. Williamsburg, MA. (FREE) ♦

9:30-11:15 – GRANDPARENTS: Weekly group at the Amherst Family Center for grandparents through June- connect with other grandparents and talk about issues of parenting grandchildren or helping children parent. 413-256-1145. 121 North Pleasant Street. Amherst, MA. (FREE) ♦

10am – BREASTFEEDINGSUPPORT: Childcare of the Berkshires hosts a breastfeeding group for mothers at the Haskins Center! 413-664-4821. 210 State Street. North Adams, MA. (FREE) ♦

10:30am – RHYME TIME: The Great Barrington Rudolf Steiner School hosts Rhyme Time this morning at Matrushka Toys! Designed for kids who are infants, crawlers, or toddlers, the program involves finger play, fun rhymes, circle games, and puppets and is lead by early childhood teachers. 413-528-4015. 309 Main Street. Great Barrington, MA. (FREE) ♦

1-2:30pm - NEW MOTHERS CIRCLE: Cradle hosts a gathering of moms and babies in a comfortable and supportive environment. Share your experiences with other moms and bond over the transformations that come with motherhood. 413-341-5282. Thornes Marketplace, 3rd Floor. Main Street. Northampton, MA. (FREE) ♦

4:30-5:30pm – PHYSICS: Learn yo-yo tricks at A2Z this afternoon! Lead by world class pros, Yo-Yo School teaches kids basic yo-yo tricks. Learning to yo-yo is a great supplement to studies of motion and physics! 413-586-1611. 57 King Street. Northampton, MA. (FREE) ♦

6pm – GAMES: The 4th Tuesday of every month is Scrabble night at the Monson Library! All ages are welcome. Scrabble can help kids practice spelling an work on their vocabulary. 413-267-3866. 2 High Street. Monson, MA. (FREE) ♦

6:30pm – BINGO: The Hinsdale Lions Club hosts Bingo every Tuesday evening. Though it’s generally an adult game, your kids can come too for a fun intergenerational evening. If they’re learning to count, they can get some great practice matching numbers on your card. Doors open at 5, and dinner is available inexpensively beforehand. 413-655-2973. Maple Street (Route 143). Hinsdale, MA. (<$) ♦

7-11pm – CHESS: The Pittsfield Chess Club meets every Tuesday night! Kids of all chess abilities can join for an intergenerational opportunity to learn and practice the game. Meets in the cafeteria at Hillcrest Hospital. 413-448-6165. West Street. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE)♦

Wednesday, March 28th, 2012

"We look to Hilltown Families for so many amazing events including homeschool times at the Historic Deerfield Museum... Thank you so very much for providing a great website!" - Elizabeth Jensen

Heather Warner of SPIFFY writes, “The SPIFFY Coalition (Strategic Planning Initiative for Families and Youth) is hosting a FREE Food and Fitness kick-off meeting on Wednesday, March 28th from 3-5:00 p.m. at the Northampton Senior Center. We will look at how local policies, and town planning can shape all residents’ ability to make healthy choices—from Farm to School; Safe Routes to School; eliminating vending machines in schools; sidewalks; and access to farmers markets. We will have plenty of time to network and share ideas. Free-open to the public–Local food tasting! RSVP helpful to Hwarner@collaborative.org”

9:30am-3:45pm – LOCAL HISTORY: The Pioneer Valley History Network’s focus for the year is examining how disasters have shaped the area’s history. Today, at their annual meeting, there will be presentations by historians on the Mill River flood of 1874 and the effects of disasters on historical records, and attendees will get a chance to share their accounts of local disasters, too. Older students and educators can a look at our community’s history (since you’ve been part of it)- what major negative events have significantly shaped local culture? As a family, prepare some notes to share. Registration required. Takes place at the Deerfield Community Center. 16 Memorial Street. Deerfield, MA. ($$)

1-5pm – LOCAL HISTORY: Visit the Crane Museum of Papermaking to learn about the history of papermaking at Crane since the early 1800’s. Located on the banks of the Housatonic River, the building itself is a museum. This is a great opportunity to learn about local history. If you can’t make it today, the museum is open all weekdays during the same hours. 413-684-2600. 30 South Street. Dalton, MA. (FREE)

3-5pm – PARENT WORKSHOP: Discuss the promotion of healthy eating and living in Hampshire County this afternoon at The Collaborative’s bi-annual SPIFFY Coalition meeting. There will also be opportunities to learn about local initiatives like Farm-to-School, increased access to farmer’s markets, and more. There will even be local food to taste. Takes place at the Northampton Senior Center. RSVP requested. 413-586-4998. 67 Con Street. Northampton, MA. (FREE)

5:30-6:30pm – LITERACY: Take part in a community literacy-focused group read. Kids in grades 6 and 7 and their families can participate by reading the book Surviving the Applewhites. Tonight, at Hampshire Regional High School, participants in the read can Skype with author Stephanie Tolan to hear all about the book. Kids will also get a free copy of the book and can participate in a community art project. 413-527-7200. 19 Stage Road. Westhampton, MA. (FREE)

5:30-7pm – CHEMISTRY: The Adams Youth Center is hosting Ooey, Gooey Night. The event is for young kids (3rd grade and younger)- they will get to experiment with many different slimy, gooey, mushy substances and learn about how they move, what they’re made out of, etc. It’s great messy fun. 413-664-4821. 20 East Street #4. Adams, MA. (FREE)

6:30-7:30pm – FRENCH: Kids can learn to speak French at the Storrs Library. There are classes for all ages- tonight’s is for elementary aged students who have little to no experience with the language. Call to register. 413-565-4182. 693 Longmeadow Street. Longmeadow, MA. (FREE)

6:30-7:30pm – PARENT WORKSHOP: The Greenfield Center School is hosting a film and discussion series titled, “Raising Healthy Kids in a Media Saturated World.” The film shown tonight is Tough Guise, which offers a look at how media constructs the masculine identity and projects it onto children. 413-773-1700. 71 Montague City Road. Greenfield, MA. (FREE)

7-9pm – FILM: The Ramsdell Library is doing an encore screening of Puppet, a film about modern puppet theater and the cultural obstacles the art faces. Not only is the film educational for those interested in alternative forms of art and/or theater, but older kids interested in pursuing puppetry (seriously or just as a hobby) will learn valuable information from the screening. 413-274-2738. 1087 Main Street. Housatonic, MA. (FREE)

10am – STORYTIME: Sunshine Story Time for preK kids at the Greenfield Public Library. Reading, singing and play intertwine as Kay Lyons leds a fun half hour of story time followed by play time. Lover Level in the LeVanway Meeting Room. 413-772-1544 x5. 402 Main Street. Greenfield, MA (FREE)

9:45-11:15 – NEW MOTHERS: New and expecting mothers group with MotherWoman at the Amherst Family Center. Share experiences and get help with adjusting to motherhood. 413-256-1145. 121 North Pleasant Street. Amherst, MA. (FREE) ♦

1-5pm – LOCAL HISTORY: Visit the Crane Museum of Papermaking to learn about the history of papermaking at Crane since the early 1800’s. Located on the banks of the Housatonic River, the building itself is a museum! This is a great opportunity to learn about local history. If you can’t make it today, the museum is open all weekdays during the same hours. 413-684-2600. 30 South Street. Dalton, MA. (FREE)

4:45-6pm – KNITTING: Is your yarn all knotted? Do your needles refuse to behave? Get some help (or, if you’re a skilled knitter, offer support) at Forbes Library’s Knitting Clinic. Knitters of all ages and abilities are welcome- no pattern problem is too big or small. 413-587-1011. 20 West Street. Northampton, MA. (FREE) ♦

6pm – SUPPORT GROUP: Treehouse hosts a New Moms Group where new mothers can connect with other moms and babies can spend time with other babies. Intended for moms with babies 6mos and under. 413-344-4435. 305 North Street. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE) ♦

6-9pm – VOLUNTEER: On the first Wednesday of every month, there is a community sew for BagShare! Donate your time to help promote the use of reusable bags and to help sustain a community resource. No experience necessary! Takes place at Eastworks. 413-584-2633. Pleasant Street. Easthampton, MA. (FREE) ♦

Thursday, March 29th, 2012

"Go to spot for family activities in the Valley! Thanks!" - Sarah Schatz (Hatfield, MA)

2:30-4pm – OUTDOOR ADVENTURE: Join the Explorers at the Hatfield Library. Kids in first and second grade will get to explore the outdoor areas near the library and learn about the things that they encounter. Registration required. 413-247-9097. 39 Main Street. Hatfield, MA. (FREE)

5-7:30pm – PARENT WORKSHOP: Parents can choose from a wide variety of workshops offered by the Springfield Parent Academy tonight at A Night at the S.P.A. The event, which has free childcare and dinner for families, features workshops on effective discipline, readying students for kindergarten, motivating kids to learn, and the importance of reading. Dinner begins at 5pm, and workshops start at 6. Parents will only be able to choose one workshop. Event takes place at the Bowles School. Call to register. 413-750-2831. 24 Bowles Street. Springfield, MA. (FREE)

7-9pm - FILM SCREENING: See the film Mother Nature’s Child tonight- it’s about the role that the natural environment plays in children’s healthy growth and development and looks at the role of unstructured outdoor play in development, play as learning, and educating the “whole” child. Following the movie will be group discussion sessions to process information provided. Screening takes place at the USFWS Headquarters. 413-255-8303. Route 9. Hadley, MA. (FREE)

10am – STORYTIME: The Greenfield Public Library hosts Pre-School Story Hour! There will be stories, songs, and fingerplay for little ones and they caregivers. 413-587-1011. 402 Main Street. Greenfield, MA. (FREE) ♦

10:30-11:30am – STORYTIME: Come and enjoy stories and songs with facilitator, Julie Stepanek, at the New Salem Library on Thurs. through Dec. 15th. 978-544-5157. 21 South Main St. New Salem., MA (FREE)

9:30-11:15 – GRANDPARENTS: Weekly group at the Amherst Family Center for grandparents through June- connect with other grandparents and talk about issues of parenting grandchildren or helping children parent. 413-256-1145. 121 North Pleasant Street. Amherst, MA. (FREE) ♦

4:30-5:30pm – PHYSICS: Learn yo-yo tricks at A2Z this afternoon! Lead by world class pros, Yo-Yo School teaches kids basic yo-yo tricks. Learning to yo-yo is a great supplement to studies of motion and physics! 413-586-1611. 57 King Street. Northampton, MA. (FREE) ♦

Friday, March 30th, 2012

"I often share ideas with my students’ parents and use them for my own family. I always check on Friday for the weekend ideas." - Margaret Betts (Greenfield, MA)

10-11am – SIGN LANGUAGE: The youngest of kiddos can practice basic communication at the Westfield Athenaeum’s Sign and Rhyme Time today! Kids ages 3-5 will learn signs for words they frequently use- they’ll be learning a new language as well as learning about new forms of communication. Call to register. 413-562-6158. 6 Elm Street. Westfield, MA. (FREE)

10-11am – PARENT WORKSHOP: Simply Parenting is offering a free introductory class. The course is the first of a 7-week series on countering the effects of our overstimulating world through parenting, and is based on Kim John Payne’s book Simplicity Parenting: Using the Extraordinary Power of Less to Raise Calmer, Happier, and More Secure Kids. Takes place at River Valley Chiropractic. Call to register. 413-586-0596. 245 Russell Street. Hadley, MA. (FREE)

1-1:45pm – FRENCH: The Storrs Library is hosting an introductory French class for preschool aged kids. You’re never too young to learn a language. Exposing young children to a second (or third) language can help them to better understand their native language, too. Call to register. 413-565-4182. 693 Longmeadow Street. Longmeadow, MA. (FREE)

5:30-8:30pm – ARTS FESTIVAL: “Into the Arts Festival” begins tonight with local school chorus and band performances throughout the evening, along with displays of poetry, photography and other art mediums. 413-572-6345. North Middle School, 350 Southampton Road. Westfield, MA

6:30-9pm – COFFEEHOUSE: Hilltown Coffeehouse happens every Friday night at the Village Church. Bring the family to enjoy and participate in music and games. An excellent intergenerational opportunity for families in the Hilltowns to meet their neighbors in a casual and creative environment. BYOB. 413-563-1981. Cummington, MA (FREE)

7pm – COMEDY: Support Northampton High School’s theater program at a comedy show. The show features comedy troupe The Ha-Ha’s, as well as NHS’ own improv groups Funktionlust and The Unusuals. Family-friendly. 413-584-5562. Elm Street. Northampton, MA. (<$)

7-7:45pm – ASTRONOMY: Learn about constellations and check out the night sky through a telescope tonight at the Hatfield Library. The program is designed for kids in grades K-3. If the forecast is cloudy, the date may be changed- call to check if you’re unsure. 413-247-9097. 39 Main Street. Hatfield, MA. (FREE)

10-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: The Greenfield YMCA hosts an indoor obstacle course playgroup for kids 7 and under! Kids can play and move throughout a series of play-obstacles (tunnels, foam blocks, etc.). 413-475-1543. 451 Main Street. Greenfield, MA. (FREE)

10:30am-12noon – PLAYGROUP: Bring the kids for a morning playgroup at the Chesterfield Senior Center. Held on the second and fourth Friday of the month. Route 143. Chesterfield, MA (FREE)

10am-12noon – PLAYGROUP: The Gateway Family Center hosts special learning playgroups for young children and their parents! Babies and their parents will learn baby sign language and play with other families. Parents of toddlers can take part in “playshops” like cooking, art projects, and games. 413-667-2203. 9 Russell Road. Huntington, MA. (FREE) ♦

10am-12Noon – PLAYGROUP: Easthampton Family Center, located at Flywheel Arts in the Old Town Hall. 43 Main Street. Easthampton, MA (FREE)♦

FRIDAY – 10-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: The Greenfield YMCA hosts an indoor obstacle course playgroup for kids 7 and under! Kids can play and move throughout a series of play-obstacles (tunnels, foam blocks, etc.). Takes place on the first and third Fridays of each month. 413-475-1543. 451 Main Street. Greenfield, MA. (FREE) ♦

11am – STORYTIME: Lap-sit story hour for kids 3yo and younger at the Greenfield Public Library for Mother Goose on the Loose. Kay Lyons leads a half hour of structured story time, followed by 15 mins of visiting time. Kids will enjoy movement games, rhythm and song as Kay reads and leads the group with puppets and hand rhymes. Lower Level in the LeVanway Meeting Room. 413-772-1544 x5. 402 Main Street. Greenfield, MA (FREE) ♦

10-10:30am – ART: Visit the Eric Carle Museum for Materials Play in the Morning, a program where kids can experiment with art making in new and nontraditional mediums that are not only great for creativity but are fun to play with! 413-658-1100. 125 West Bay Road. Amherst, MA. (<$) ♦

11am-4pm - MUSEUM ADVENTURES: The KidSpace at Mass MoCA is open today- explore an exhibit designed just for young people and make some art of your own! 413-664-4481. 1040 Mass MoCA Way. North Adams, MA. (FREE) ♦

6-7pm – BABY SIGN LANGUAGE: Sign Loud and Clear presents an info session on the benefits of baby sign language! Babies are sometimes able to begin communicating via sign language before they are able to communicate verbally- learn how to start signing with your baby! Takes place at Baystate Medical Center. Springfield Street. Springfield, MA. (FREE)

6:30-9pm – COFFEEHOUSE: Hilltown Coffeehouse happens every Friday night at the Village Church. Bring the family to enjoy and participate in music and games. An excellent intergenerational opportunity for families in the Hilltowns to meet their neighbors in a casual and creative environment. BYOB. 413-563-1981. Cummington, MA (FREE)

6:30-8:30pm – SUPPORT GROUP: GROW and MotherWoman host a postpartum support group for mothers in need of a supportive space to share, receive help, and grow. The group takes place at the Community Room. 413-822-6043. 48 Elizabeth Street. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE) ♦

7-9pm – YO-YOS: A2Z’s Dogbite Yo-Yo club meets on the second Friday of each month for a night of yo-yo skill sharing and learning. Meets at the College Church. 48 Pomeroy Terrace. Northampton, MA. (FREE) ♦

7:30pm – ASTRONOMY: Milham Planetarium at Williams College hosts an observatory show tonight! The planetarium’s Zeiss Skymaster can show phases of the moon, retrograde motions of planets, temperatures of planets and stars, the location of nearby galaxies, and more! The show is entertaining and also a great learning opportunity. 413-597-2188. 829 Main Street. Williamstown, MA. (FREE) ♦

8:30pm-12:30am - COMMUNITY DANCE: Dance Spree is a community family-friendly (and barefoot!) dance event – kids of all ages are welcome to attend with guardians. Great way to get moving! 25 Main Street, 4th Floor (above Fitzwilly’s). Northampton, MA. (<$) ♦

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Welcome to Hilltown Families, an online grassroots communication network for families living throughout the four counties of western Massachusetts. Hilltown Families believes in creating resilient and sustainable communities by developing and strengthening a sense of place in our children and citizens through community based education and engagement. We work to accomplish this by highlighting the embedded learning that is found everywhere in our communities, making the information accessible to families, and giving parents/educators access to opportunities that supports their children’s interests and education while encouraging community engagement.

Hilltown Families was founded in 2005 by Sienna Wildfield and is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization.

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